Surveillance
Trump axes Democrats on intelligence and privacy oversight board
The removals come as Congress is set to decide next year whether to renew a controversial surveillance authority that’s been scrutinized by the board.
FY2025 NDAA targets spyware threats to U.S. diplomats, military devices
The language comes as the State department has pressed foreign governments to collectively set standards to prevent spyware abuses.
DHS surveillance tools lack bias and privacy protections, GAO says
DHS law enforcement agencies are currently developing policies to reduce bias in the use of AI-enabled tech but have no plans to do so for other monitoring tools.
Justice broadens its AI data analysis abilities to process video, redact info
An expanded contract with AI software firm Veritone will allow the Department of Justice to streamline unstructured data for limited requested public access and investigative efforts.
Biden looks to preserve tech, cyber legacy with veto threat
Experts see continuity in tech policy from the Biden administration to a possible Kamala Harris presidency, with possible divergence on some national security and antitrust issues.
Section 702 renewal has support in Congress, but intelligence officials are leery of warrant measure
The disputed surveillance authority expires April 19, and the intelligence community is sending a full-court press to keep it from garnering significant privacy reforms.
Biden’s new data security order leaves industry officials, privacy advocates scratching their heads
Implementing the executive order will involve crafting new legal mechanisms for data transfers while assuaging ongoing privacy concerns.
NSA ‘recently completed’ AI strategic study, director says
Outgoing chief Gen. Paul Nakasone looks back, forward, and pushes for Sec. 702 authority.
Biden Administration Examining How Companies Use AI to Surveil Employees
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy is seeking public feedback on companies’ use of artificial intelligence and automated systems to monitor employees.
Repent Your Abuses of Eavesdropping Law, Lawmakers Tell Intel Agencies
House pols want change as agencies seek renewal of FISA’s Section 702.
Digital Authoritarianism Poses ‘Critical Threat’ to National Security, Intel Chief Says
The top U.S. intelligence official said democratic nations need to develop frameworks that “preserve, to the greatest extent, the promise” of emerging tech that could be used by repressive regimes to censor or surveil citizens.
CFPB Announces New Inquiry into Data Brokers
The financial regulatory agency wants to learn more about data brokers’ business operations, especially surrounding user experiences.
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Chinese Spy Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison
The foreign national intended to obtain U.S. citizenship and a security clearance in order to get a federal government cybersecurity position.
Legislators Renew Efforts to Protect Consumers from an Eavesdropping Fridge
The reintroduced bill asks the Federal Trade Commission to establish disclosure guidelines for smart devices and appliances that consumers would not expect to be recording them.
Who Sees What You Flush? Wastewater Surveillance for Public Health is on the Rise, but a new Survey Reveals Many US Adults are Still Unaware
Have you ever wondered who is spying on your waste?
Chinese Firms Exporting Surveillance Tools Across the Globe, Report Says
A new report from the Atlantic Council said China is allowing government-affiliated companies to export surveillance technologies as part of an effort to expand its global influence.
FTC Lawsuit Spotlights a Major Privacy Risk: From Call Records to Sensors, Your Phone Reveals More About You Than You Think
You are your phone, sometimes.
Lawmakers Question DOJ’s National Security Division on Cybersecurity, Surveillance
The House Judiciary Committee raised concerns over three hostile foreign actors that breached court systems in early 2020, in addition to questions about the surveillance of Americans.
Human Rights Advocate to Congress: Stop Federal Procurement of Commercial Spyware
The Intelligence Authorization Act, which recently cleared committee in the House, empowers—but does not require—the director of national intelligence to bar such acquisitions.
How NORAD Plans to Ward Off Cruise Missiles Fired at the US
The command has goals for 2025 and 2030, but wants more guidance from the Pentagon.
